News

Thousands of Kitchener residents have already cast their ballots in the 2026 municipal and school board election, with advance voting drawing strong participation across the city. A total of 8,208 residents voted during advance voting opportunities held between October 8 to 20, representing four per cent of all eligible voters, and exceeding advance turnout in the 2022 election by 47 per cent.

The City of Kitchener is celebrating Small Business Week with free workshops and networking events for aspiring entrepreneurs and small business owners. Interested residents are invited to register online through the Waterloo Region Small Business Centre.

From family-run shops to innovative startups, small businesses help shape the character and vitality of our city. This week is an opportunity to celebrate the entrepreneurs who make Kitchener unique and to encourage residents to support local businesses that contribute so much to our community every day by creating jobs, strengthening our community, and making Kitchener’s economy more competitive.

Kitchener Fire crews responded to an outdoor fire behind a commercial building near the railway tracks on Wellington Street at approximately 6:15 p.m. on October 19, 2026.

The City of Kitchener is expanding its outdoor winter rink program for the 2026–2027 season, with three new neighbourhood rink locations, bringing the total to nearly 30 across Kitchener. Volunteer Winter Rink Coordinators and General Volunteers are needed to help bring these community spaces to life and keep Kitchener skating this winter. 

Today, Council, staff and residents of the City of Kitchener join a mourning nation following the tragic events of October 17 at Canadian Forces Base Wainwright in Alberta.

On behalf of our entire community, I offer our deepest condolences to the families, loved ones and colleagues of all who lost their lives during yesterday’s tragic incident in a training area at CFB Wainwright.

On October 16, at 8:23 p.m., Kitchener Fire crews responded to a significant structure fire involving an eight-unit residential townhouse block on Activa Avenue. Flames and smoke were visible from the roof above four units when crews arrived.

Four units sustained fire, smoke, and water damage, and the occupants will not be permitted to return to those units at this time. Damage is currently estimated between $500,000 and $750,000. 

On Friday, October 16, at 8:23 p.m., Kitchener Fire crews responded to a significant structure fire involving an eight-unit residential townhouse block on Activa Avenue. Upon arrival, crews encountered a fire affecting four units and extended into the attic spaces.

A primary search of the building has been completed. Fire crews will remain on scene to monitor for hot spots, conduct overhaul operations, and secure the property. The Ontario Fire Marshal will be notified, and Kitchener Fire's investigation team will attend in the morning to begin determining the cause of the fire.

What started as a one-day event has grown into a nine-day community celebration, as excitement continues to build around the opening of Cowan Recreation Centre at RBJ Schlegel Park. From November 14 to 22, residents of all ages are invited to explore Kitchener's newest recreation destination at their own pace – and at no charge. Visitors can pre-register to take part in activities, try new programs and facility amenities and watch local athletes play.

Voter turnout during the first three days of advance voting for Kitchener's 2026 municipal election has exceeded turnout recorded during the first three days of advance voting in the 2022 election, demonstrating strong early participation from residents.

Water service has been fully restored at Fairview Park Mall following an emergency water shutdown last night to replace a water valve. Thank you for your patience while Kitchener Utilities worked to resolve this issue.

2026 Municipal Election: Advance Voting at Fairview Park Mall

Advance voting for the 2026 Municipal Election will take place at Fairview Park Mall as scheduled today from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Please use entrance #2 (closest to the Ion station) to access the mall for voting.